As parents, we all want to help our children navigate their academic journey with confidence. The Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) is a significant milestone in Singapore’s education system, and understanding its scoring system can help us better support our children. If you’ve ever found PSLE grading confusing, don’t worry—we’re here to break it down for you.
The Achievement Levels (AL) Scoring System
The PSLE scoring system was revised to move away from the previous T-score system, which ranked students against their peers. Instead, the new Achievement Levels (AL) grading structure focuses on individual mastery of subjects.
Each standard-level PSLE subject is graded from AL1 to AL8:
| Achievement Level (AL) | Marks |
| AL1 | 90 – 100 |
| AL2 | 85 – 89 |
| AL3 | 80 – 84 |
| AL4 | 75 – 79 |
| AL5 | 65 – 74 |
| AL6 | 45 – 64 |
| AL7 | 20 – 44 |
| AL8 | Below 20 |
A student’s total PSLE score is the sum of the AL scores from their four subjects, ranging from a best possible score of 4 (AL1 for all subjects) to 32.
For students taking Foundation-level subjects, a different scoring scale applies:
| AL for Foundation Subject | Equivalent Standard-Level AL |
| AL A (75-100) | AL6 |
| AL B (30-74) | AL7 |
| AL C (Below 30) | AL8 |
(Source: MOE PSLE Scoring System)
What’s Changing in 2024?
From 2024 onwards, the traditional Express, Normal (Academic), and Normal (Technical) streams will be removed. Instead, students will be assigned to secondary schools through three Posting Groups (1, 2, and 3). These groups will be used solely for admission purposes and to guide the initial subject levels students can take at the start of Secondary One.
A More Flexible Secondary School Experience
Rather than being restricted by streams, students will have the flexibility to take subjects at three different levels:
- G1 (General 1) – Previously equivalent to Normal (Technical)
- G2 (General 2) – Previously equivalent to Normal (Academic)
- G3 (General 3) – Previously equivalent to Express
This means that students can now tailor their subject combinations based on their strengths, interests, and learning needs. They will also have opportunities to adjust their subject levels throughout their secondary school years, allowing for greater customization and adaptability in their learning journey.
How This Affects Your Child
This new system aims to reduce academic stress and encourage students to focus on their own progress instead of competing with their peers. It also ensures a smoother transition to secondary school, where students can pursue subjects at the level best suited to them. As parents, we can support our children by helping them identify their strengths and providing guidance on their subject choices.
Supporting Your Child with Zipply
At Zipply, we understand that every child’s learning journey is unique. Whether your child needs help mastering a subject at a higher level or requires additional support to build confidence, we connect you with experienced tutors who can provide personalized guidance.
By working with the right tutor, your child can approach their studies with confidence, excel in their PSLE, and transition smoothly into secondary school.
At Zipply, we believe that every learner deserves the right tutor—someone who understands their unique pace, needs, and goals. That’s why we’ve built a smarter, simpler way to connect you with personalised one-to-one support across every subject and level. Because when learning is tailored, progress follows and—and inspiration comes alive. Ready to find your match? Start your journey at Zipply.com.sg.
Let’s Ignite Inspired Learning!
